This Butter Pecan Fudge is a rich, creamy confection bursting with buttery sweetness and toasted pecan crunch. Perfectly spiced with cinnamon and smooth vanilla, it’s a classic homemade treat that’s easy to make and ideal for sharing or enjoying as a sweet indulgence.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Smooth and creamy texture that melts on your tongue.
Perfect balance of sweetness and buttery richness.
Crunchy toasted pecans add delightful texture and flavor.
Quick stovetop method with minimal ingredients.

Ingredients Breakdown

Butter: Provides a rich, creamy base and enhances flavor
Heavy whipping cream: Adds moisture and smooth texture
Brown sugar: Contributes deep caramel notes and sweetness
Granulated sugar: Balances sweetness and helps with fudge consistency
Salt: Enhances the overall flavor and balances sweetness
Cinnamon: Adds a warm, subtle spice accent
Vanilla extract: Boosts flavor complexity and aroma
Powdered sugar: Gives the fudge its smooth, firm texture
Toasted pecans: Add crunch and a nutty, buttery flavor

Tips and Tricks

Use a candy thermometer for accurate temperature control to ensure perfect fudge texture.
Toast pecans just before mixing for maximum flavor and crunch.
Stir vigorously as the mixture cools to create a smooth, creamy consistency.
For a softer fudge, remove from heat slightly before reaching 235°F.
Line your pan or work surface with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Variations and Customizations

Chocolate Butter Pecan: Add ½ cup of melted semi-sweet chocolate to the mixture before adding powdered sugar.
Salted Caramel Twist: Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the top after shaping for a sweet-salty combo.
Nut Mix: Substitute or combine pecans with walnuts or almonds for varied texture.
Spiced Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom along with cinnamon for a warm spice blend.

Pairing Suggestions

Serve with hot coffee, black tea, or a creamy latte.
Accompany with fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
Package as a thoughtful homemade gift with festive wrapping.

Storage Instructions

Store fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
For longer storage, freeze fudge pieces wrapped individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw before serving.

Butter Pecan Fudge

Author: easysweetmeal
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: About 24 pieces 1x

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in the rich, buttery goodness of Butter Pecan Fudge — a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth treat bursting with toasted pecan flavor and warm cinnamon notes. This classic homemade fudge is perfect for gifting, holiday celebrations, or satisfying your sweet cravings anytime.

Ingredients

Scale

½ cup unsalted butter
½ cup heavy whipping cream
½ cup brown sugar (packed)
½ cup granulated sugar
¼ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 ¼ cups powdered sugar (sifted)
1 ⅓ cups toasted pecans, chopped

Instructions

1. Prepare Your Equipment

Line a work surface with parchment paper for shaping the fudge later.
Toast pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant, then chop and set aside.

2. Boil the Base

In a medium saucepan, combine butter, heavy cream, brown sugar, granulated sugar, salt, and cinnamon.
Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring frequently.
Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature and cook until the mixture reaches 235°F (soft-ball stage).

3. Add Flavor and Cool

Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Allow the mixture to cool to approximately 105°F (warm but not hot).

4. Mix and Fold

Once cooled, vigorously stir the mixture to begin thickening.
Gradually add the powdered sugar, stirring continuously to combine fully.
Fold in the toasted chopped pecans evenly.

5. Shape and Chill

Turn the fudge mixture out onto the parchment paper.
Shape it into a log or rectangular block using the parchment paper to help mold it evenly.
Refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours until firm.

6. Slice and Serve

Once chilled and set, slice the fudge into bite-sized squares or slices.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Notes

This Butter Pecan Fudge recipe delivers a timeless, luscious confection perfect for candy lovers of all ages. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a rich, nutty fudge that’s ideal for sharing or savoring anytime.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American